AN online auction seller has switched to a bricks and mortar shop
to launch her second-hand chic business. Shari Kelly set up The
Refurbished Furniture Company in a former petrol station in Newbiggin by
the Sea, where she also gives classic items a new lease of life.

She said: "Lots of people these days are counting their
pennies and they appreciate the quality and workmanship that went into
older furniture that you'd pay a fortune for if it was brand new.
Plus there's a danger that your neighbours have bought exactly the
same thing.

"I specialise in lovingly restoring and refurbishing quality
furniture, mostly solid wood. It's unique, it's good quality
and it's cheaper than buying new or even antiques."

She worked with Ashington-based business start-up support
organisation Go Wansbeck to put together her business plan.

Enterprise coach Graeme Trotter said: "Shari's furniture
is fabulous and she's really got what it takes to run a great
business.

"She used to work in the banking sector and more recently in a
solicitor's office but this is where her heart is. All she needed
was a little bit of help to get it off the ground."

CAPTION(S):

STARTING UP Shari Kelly of The Refurbished Furniture Company with
Graeme Trotter of Go Wansbeck

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